A fourth round of the TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) Discretionary Grant program will make $500 million available for surface transportation projects having a significant impact on the nation, a metropolitan area or region.  

The previous three rounds of the TIGER program provided $2.6 billion to 172 projects in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Demand for the program has been overwhelming, and during the previous three rounds, the U.S. Department of Transportation received more than 3,348 applications requesting more than $95 billion for transportation projects across the country.

As in previous rounds, high-speed rail and intercity passenger rail projects remain eligible for funding. TIGER 2012 provides for the possibility of up to $100 million being used toward these projects. TIGER 2012 will also continue to encourage the development of transportation projects in rural areas, providing $120 million for rural transportation projects.

Projects will be evaluated on primary criteria that include safety, economic competitiveness, livability, environmental sustainability, state of repair and short-term job creation.

Pre-applications are due February 20 and applications are due March 19.

To read the Notice of Funding Availability, click here.